Palo Alto Network (PANW) Firewall Engineer with Security Clearance

Palo Alto Network (PANW) Firewall Engineer Description: Are you looking to take the next steps in your career as a Palo Alto Networks Firewall Engineer? Let's chat and see if we are a good match Opportunity: Our partner is searching for a skilled Palo Alto Networks (PANW) Firewall Engineer to join our team in Reston, VA. In this role, you will deploy and manage a complex firewall environment - including PA-1400, PA-3400 and PA-5500 PQC-capable devices-via Panorama M-700 with 1,000 device licenses, along with VM Series firewalls utilizing VM Flex Credits. You will work directly with security and network teams to migrate, optimize, and maintain Next-Generation Firewall Infrastructure in a mission-critical DoD environment. If you have extensive experience with Palo Alto Networks products and a passion for enterprise network security, we want to hear from you! Responsibilities: * Configure, implement and maintain the Security Operating Platforms in a complex DoD environment. * Optimize and migrate security policies and objects from legacy environments to Next-Gen Firewalls * Deploy and manage PA-1400, PA-3400, PA-5500, and PA-7000 Series firewalls via Panorama M-700 * Manage VM Series firewalls and VM Flex Credits in virtual firewall environments * Test and validate migration environments and coordinate cutover to production * Provide guidance on code upgrades and facilitate development of new application and threat signatures * Interact with the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) to understand and resolve support cases * Understand customer environments, requirements, and security roadmaps to implement appropriate security solutions * Communicate effectively with customers, sales teams, peers, engineering, and support teams * Work with security and network teams to build confidence across business units impacted by changes * Some travel may be required depending on customer request Qualifications: * 7-9 years of experience with network and security solutions and technologies * Minimum 5 years of experience with BGP, SD-WAN concepts, VXLAN, and general routing and switching * Minimum 3 years of experience leading security solutions in large, complex environments * Extensive hands-on knowledge of Palo Alto Networks products including PA-7000 Series, PA-5500 Series, PA-3400 Series, and VM Series * High-level experience with Panorama and log collectors * Proficiency with NGFW and GlobalProtect * Detailed technical experience in the installation, configuration, and operation of high-end firewall appliances * Strong experience in internetworking, LAN, and WAN technologies * Solid understanding of internet protocols and applications * Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with senior leaders and technical peers * Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work calmly under pressure * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, MIS, Business, or equivalent education, training, or experience Preferred Qualifications: * Experience with PA-1400 and PA-5500 PQC-capable devices * Familiarity with DoD security frameworks and classified network environments * Experience supporting large-scale firewall migrations in enterprise or government settings Requirements: * Must be within driving distance of Reston, VA or willing to relocate * Must be willing to work fully on-site * Active TS-SCI clearance with CI Polygraph - required at time of application * Minimum Security+ certification required (SecurityX / CASP+ acceptable) * Required certification: CNSE/PCSNE or Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer * Preferred additional certifications: CISSP, CCNA, JNCIE-SEC * Strong written and verbal communication skills with excellent attention to detail * Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a mission-focused environment * Must be willing and able to travel as required